Pakistan has signed its largest fighter jet export deal ever with Azerbaijan, Azernews reported on Thursday.
The deal for JF-17C Block-III fighter jets was signed for $1.6bn, including aircraft, training and ammunition, Pakistani media reported.
Pakistani authorities have not immediately commented on the agreement, which amounts to nearly double the most recent tranche of $700 million from the IMF for Pakistan.
The agreement, reportedly signed by the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex (PAC) with the Azerbaijan Air Force, was disclosed by an Azerbaijani website, quoting Pakistani media without specifying the source.
Reportedly, the agreement involves the sale of JF-17C Block-III fighter jets for $1.6 billion.
The PAC, a conglomerate comprising four adjacent factories, is responsible for maintaining all operational assets of the Pakistan Air Force to ensure control and efficient operations.
This complex boasts diverse engineering capabilities, enabling it to undertake a wide range of tasks including aircraft structure overhaul, aircraft component overhaul, aircraft engine overhaul, as well as radar and avionics maintenance and overhaul.
Established in 1971, the PAC was established after recognizing the significant foreign exchange expenditure associated with aircraft overhaul abroad.
Initially known as the F6 Rebuild Factory, now referred to as the Aircraft Rebuild Factory (ARF) in Kamra, it has collaborated with companies from Turkey and China to manufacture certain products. Additionally, it has business interests in several other countries including Myanmar, Nigeria, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Last year, Pakistan and Azerbaijan affirmed their commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation in energy, trade, and aviation sectors, reflecting the enduring relationship between the two nations. This commitment was underscored during discussions between former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev at Zugulba Palace in June 2023.
